A half-sider (or “half-sider cockatiel”) is a term used to describe a genetic mutation or condition in cockatiels that results in asymmetrical feather coloration. Essentially, it refers to a cockatiel that has two distinct color patterns on either side of its body, often with one side of the bird being a different color or pattern than the other. This unique and striking appearance occurs due to a genetic anomaly affecting feather pigmentation during development.
Some colours are not a result of genetic changes and are acquired after hatching or even later in life. They may be permanent or may only appear at certain times and then disappear.